'Samgyeopsal Outing' President Lee Jae-myung: "The economy thrives when local businesses do"

"Expecting a virtuous economic cycle through consumption coupons"

"Preparing follow-up measures for domestic demand recovery"

President Lee Jae-myung said on the 12th regarding the livelihood recovery consumption coupon policy, "I hope it will boost domestic consumption, breathe new life into stagnant local economies, and create a virtuous economic cycle."

On Facebook, President Lee wrote, "Local businesses must thrive for the economy to thrive. I hope the public will support their neighborhood economies by visiting nearby restaurants and participating in dining out." He added, "Your participation will reignite the local economy and serve as the driving force for Korea’s promising future." He also mentioned, "We will take the initiative in preparing follow-up measures for domestic demand recovery."

President Lee also shared that, the night before, he had a meal with staff from the Presidential Office at a restaurant in Gwanghwamun, Seoul. He said, "On the way home Friday evening, I had dinner with my staff," and emphasized, "I am grateful to those who are doing their utmost in their respective positions, even in a tough environment where I started with neither a transition committee nor staff to hand over duties."

He continued, "I expressed deep gratitude for everyone’s hard work—including those who ended up in the emergency room from overwork, the person in charge of returning to Cheong Wa Dae, the field staff preparing for the Gyeongju APEC event, and those handling recruitment."

President Lee said, "It was especially meaningful to meet and greet the people in person. Sitting with the restaurant owner, staff, and other guests, I listened firsthand to their experiences regarding the economic situation and prices." He added, "I sincerely listened to all their opinions," and, "This meeting will greatly help us look even more closely at people’s lives and craft policies in the future."

During the dinner, President Lee ordered ogyeopsal and made 'somaek' (soju·beer) for his staff, saying, "To stimulate consumption, I must take the lead in dining out more."

Ahn Hye-won, Hankyung.com Reporter anhw@hankyung.com